Heroin / Opioids – A public health and safety crisis in our community

What’s going on?

An epidemic of addiction to heroin and other opioids has gripped the
nation. Overdose deaths are skyrocketing.

It’s happening throughout Virginia.

It’s happening here.

Getting help

If the situation is immediately life-threatening, call 911. Our
Fire and Rescue personnel carry medication that can prevent deaths
from opioid overdose.

If it's after business hours, call CSB Emergency Services at
703-573-5679; available 24/7, every day of the year, including
weekends and holidays.

If you or someone you love needs help to overcome drug dependence,
call us during business hours at 703-383-8500. Our staff can help
you find appropriate treatment and recovery resources. Youth and
adults can also come in person, without prior appointment, to Entry
& Referral Services at the CSB's Merrifield Center
Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to be screened for
services. Youth walk-in evaluations are offered during these times
and also until 7 p.m. on Tuesdays. [Learn what
happens during an assessment.]

If you are pregnant and are using alcohol or drugs, call us
TODAY.

Using alcohol or drugs while pregnant will harm the baby. If
you or someone you know is pregnant, or has recently delivered
a baby, and needs help to stop using alcohol or drugs, call
us today at 703-383-8500.

In Virginia, pregnant women who need substance abuse services
have priority for services and will be seen within 48 hours.

What are opioids?

Opioids act on the brain; produce euphoric effect.

Often prescribed to relieve pain. Morphine, oxycodone, hydrocodone,
tramadol, methadone and fentanyl are all opioids.

The illegal drug, heroin, is also an opioid.

Highly addictive, even lethal, if used improperly.

Heroin laced with carfentanil
(an opioid tranquilizer used on large animals) and fentanyl
has appeared in illegal drug markets and is extremely dangerous for
humans.

Remove expired, unwanted, or unused medicines from your home as
quickly as possible to help reduce the chance that others may
accidentally take or intentionally misuse the unneeded medicine.
(Source:
FDA) Learn how to properly dispose of
medications.

Think you may need help?

Come in person to the Merrifield Center during
business hours and talk with our entry and referral staff, Monday
through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Extended hours available for youth
on Tuesdays until 7 p.m.